Cosmetic formulation

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a method of applying a topical skin composition to skin. The method can include applying the composition to skin. The composition can include  Silybum marianum  fruit extract and  Momordica grosvenorii  fruit extract.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/002,192, filed Jan. 20, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 14/318,217 (now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,278,061),filed Jun. 27, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.No. 13/751,890, filed Jan. 28, 2013 (now issued as U.S. Pat. No.8,828,455), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/591,743, filed Jan. 27, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Application No.61/591,665, filed Jan. 27, 2012. The contents of the referencedapplications are incorporated into the present application by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to cosmetic compositions thatcan be used on dry skin, oily skin, normal skin, or combination skin. Inparticular embodiments, the compositions are cosmetic toners orfresheners.

B. Description of Related Art

There are thousands of skin formulations available to consumers.Further, there are a myriad of different skin types among thepopulation. Such skin types range from normal skin, dry skin, oily skin,and combination skin (e.g., normal/dry, normal/oily, dry/oily). Thisleads to a confusing and exhaustive search for different products fordifferent applications.

Cosmetic toners are known and used in the marketplace. For instance,several toners include high levels of acetone or alcohol (e.g., at least20 to 70% w/w) such ethanol, acetone, or isopropanol. Thesealcoholic-based toners can be caustic or irritating to skin. Othertoners also use high levels (e.g., at least 20 to 70% w/w) ofglycol-based ingredients (e.g., glycol ethers), which can have an acridsmell.

While some water-based toners exist, the use of high amounts of watergenerally precludes the addition of other ingredients that can bebeneficial to skin (e.g., moisturizers and skin actives). One solutionto this issue is the use of high amounts of surfactants or emulsifiers,which unfortunately can irritate the skin. Further, by using highamounts of water, one is typically precluded from using a standard basethat can be used for various skin-types.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Applicant has discovered a solution to the problems associated withcurrent cosmetic toners. This solution is a combination of botanicalingredients that can be used to create a toning formulation for aparticular skin-type (e.g., dry skin, normal skin, oil-skin, combinationskin—e.g., normal/dry, normal/oily, dry/oily), while using a standardbase-set of ingredients in the underlying cosmetic vehicle. Further, theamounts of the base-set of ingredients used in the underlying cosmeticvehicle can be modified to account for the particular combinations ofbotanical ingredients.

In a broad aspect, there is disclosed a topical skin composition thatincludes a combination of botanical extracts, said extracts includingSilybum marianum fruit extract and Momordica grosvenorii fruit extractand a cosmetic vehicle that includes at least 80% by weight of water(based on total weight of the composition). This combination can be usedacross all skin types (e.g., dry skin, normal skin, oily skin, andcombination skin). The addition of hydrolyzed algin and Linumusitatissimum seed extract to this combination was found to workparticularly well with dry skin, as it can restore the natural pHbalance in skin while making the skin look more radiant and healthierand also make the skin feel softer, smoother, and hydrated. The additionof Plumeria alba flower extract, and Nymphaea gigantea flower extractwas found to work particularly well with normal skin, as it can improvethe skin's texture, leaving it with a soft matte finish, while alsomaking the skin look healthier and feel refreshed and ready for topicalapplication of a moisturizing product. The addition of Kunzea ericoidesleaf extract and Psidium guajava fruit extract was found to workparticularly well with oily skin, as it can remove excess oil or sebumwithout drying the skin while cleansing and minimizing the appearance ofpores and improving the skin's clarity. The amounts of these botanicalplant extracts within a given composition can vary. In one instance, forexample, the following ranges/amounts were found to work well: 0.0003 to0.0005% by weight of Silybum marianum fruit extract; and 0.0001 to0.0005% by weight of Momordica grosvenorii fruit extract. For dry skin,the addition of the following botanical plant extracts in the followingamounts were found to work well: 0.003 to 0.005% by weight of hydrolyzedalgin; and 0.0004 to 0.0006% by weight of Linum usitatissimum seedextract. For normal skin, the addition of the following botanical plantextracts in the following amounts were found to work well: 0.01 to 0.02%by weight of Plumeria alba flower extract; and 0.001 to 0.01% by weightof Nymphaea gigantea flower extract. For oily skin, the addition of thefollowing botanical plant extracts in the following amounts were foundto work well: 0.005 to 0.01% by weight of Kunzea ericoides leaf extract;and 0.0004 to 0.0006% by weight of Psidium guajava fruit extract. It isalso contemplated, however, that the amount of said botanical plantextracts can go below or above the stated ranges. In this regard, theamount of any one of said botanical plant extracts within a givencomposition can range from 0.00001 to 10%, 0.0001 to 5%, 0.001 to 2%,0.01 to 1%, 0.1 to 0.5%, etc.

In particular aspects, and in addition to the high amounts of water, thecosmetic vehicle can also include any one of, any combination of, or atleast 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or all 12 of the followingingredients: butylene glycol; glycerin; diazolidinyl urea;methylparaben; disodium EDTA; simethicone; PPG-26; PEG/PPG-22/23dimethicone; citric acid; phenoxyethanol; potassium sorbate; and sodiumbenzoate. In particular aspects, it was found that a combination of all12 of these additional ingredients can be used as vehicle for productsdesigned for dry skin, normal skin, oily skin, and combination skin.This is a unique discovery, as underlying vehicles for particular skintypes tend to be different to serve different needs (e.g., dry skintypically needs excess moisturizing abilities, whereas oily skintypically needs reduced moisturizing abilities, etc.). The generalrange/amounts for each of these ingredients in the vehicle can be (basedon total weight of the composition): 2 to 8% by weight of butyleneglycol; 1 to 5% by weight of glycerin; 0.1 to 0.3% by weight ofdiazolidinyl urea; 0.1 to 0.2% by weight of methylparaben; 0.05 to 0.1%by weight of disodium EDTA; 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of simethicone;0.001 to 0.002% by weight of PPG-26; 0.001 to 0.002% by weight ofPEG/PPG-22/23 dimethicone; 0.0001 to 0.002% by weight of citric acid;0.0001 to 0.0007% by weight of phenoxyethanol; 0.00001 to 0.0003% byweight of potassium sorbate; and 0.00001 to 0.0002% by weight of sodiumbenzoate. The amounts of ingredients within the cosmetic vehicle or theaddition of excipients or other ingredients can also be added to thecosmetic vehicle to, for example, modify the vehicle's rheologicalproperties, change the combination of botanical plant extracts, orinclude additional skin benefits. In one particular instance, thefollowing vehicle was found to work well with dry skin (amounts based ontotal weight of the composition): 80 to 85% by weight of water; 6 to 8%by weight of butylene glycol; 3 to 5% by weight of glycerin; 0.1 to 0.3%by weight of diazolidinyl urea; 0.1 to 0.2% by weight of methylparaben;0.05 to 0.1% by weight of disodium EDTA; 0.002 to 0.003% by weight ofsimethicone; 0.001 to 0.002% by weight of PPG-26; 0.001 to 0.002% byweight of PEG/PPG-22/23 dimethicone; 0.001 to 0.002% by weight of citricacid; 0.0005 to 0.0007% by weight of phenoxyethanol; 0.0002 to 0.0004%by weight of potassium sorbate; and 0.00001 to 0.0001% by weight ofsodium benzoate.

In another instance, the following vehicle was found to work well withnormal skin (amounts based on total weight of the composition): 85 to90% by weight of water; 3 to 5% by weight of butylene glycol; 3 to 5% byweight of glycerin; 0.1 to 0.3% by weight of diazolidinyl urea; 0.1 to0.2% by weight of methylparaben; 0.05 to 0.1% by weight of disodiumEDTA; 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of simethicone; 0.001 to 0.002% byweight of PPG-26; 0.001 to 0.002% by weight of PEG/PPG-22/23dimethicone; 0.001 to 0.002% by weight of citric acid; 0.0003 to 0.0005%by weight of phenoxyethanol; 0.00001 to 0.0001% by weight of potassiumsorbate; and 0.00001 to 0.0001% by weight of sodium benzoate. In stillanother instance, the following vehicle was found to work well with oilyskin (amounts based on total weight of the composition): 94 to 96% byweight of water; 2 to 3% by weight of butylene glycol; 0.5 to 2% byweight of glycerin; 0.2 to 0.4% by weight of diazolidinyl urea; 0.1 to0.2% by weight of methylparaben; 0.01 to 0.2% by weight of disodiumEDTA; 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of simethicone; 0.001 to 0.002% byweight of PPG-26; 0.001 to 0.002% by weight of PEG/PPG-22/23dimethicone; 0.0001 to 0.0003% by weight of citric acid; 0.0001 to0.0003% by weight of phenoxyethanol; 0.0001 to 0.0003% by weight ofpotassium sorbate; and 0.0001 to 0.0003% by weight of sodium benzoate.Also, and as previously indicated, the compositions of the presentinvention work well as toners, such as fresheners. One of the reasonsfor this is their light weight and mild/gentle skin formulationcharacteristics.

Also disclosed is a method of applying any one of the topical skincompositions of the present invention to skin. The skin can be facialskin, body skin (e.g., arms, hands, legs, feet, neck, back chest,abdomen, or scalp. The composition can be applied to skin within 1, 2,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 minutes after the skin has been cleansed by acleansing composition (e.g., soap, cleansing product, towellete, etc.).Further, a skin moisturizer product can be applied to skin within 1, 2,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 minutes after applying any one of the topicalskin compositions to skin. In this sense, the topical skin compositionsof the present invention can be used in a regimen of other products. Forinstance, a person could start with washing the skin, followed bytopical application of a composition of the present invention to skin,followed by topical application of a moisturizer product to skin, and insome instances, followed by cleansing the skin for application of a mask(typically during the evening hours).

In a further embodiment, the inventors contemplate the use of thecompositions of the present invention to treat particular skinconditions. The skin conditions can range from fine lines or wrinkles,uneven skin tone, loose or saggy skin, erythemic skin, sensitive skin,dry skin, flaky skin, itchy skin, chapped skin, pruritus, spider veins,lentigo, age spots, senile purpura, keratosis, melasma, blotches,nodules, sun damaged skin, dermatitis (including, but not limited toseborrheic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, contact dermatitis, atopicdermatitis, exfoliative dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, and stasisdermatitis), psoriasis, folliculitis, rosacea, acne, impetigo,erysipelas, erythrasma, eczema, sun burns, burned skin, open wounds,and/or skin-inflammatory skin conditions.

The compositions of the present invention can take the form of a spray,foam, toner, cream ointment, gel, or lotion, emulsion, solution, beaerosolized, or be in powdered form. The compositions can also beformulated for topical skin application at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, ormore times a day during use. In other aspects of the present invention,compositions can be storage stable or color stable, or both. It is alsocontemplated that the viscosity of the composition can be selected toachieve a desired result, e.g., depending on the type of compositiondesired, the viscosity of such composition can be from about 1 cps towell over 1 million cps or any range or integer derivable therein (e.g.,2 cps, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100,200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000,6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 20000, 30000, 40000, 50000, 60000, 70000,80000, 90000, 100000, 200000, 300000, 400000, 500000, 600000, 700000,800000, 900000, 1000000 cps, etc., as measured on a BrookfieldViscometer using a TC spindle at 2.5 rpm at 25° C.). The compositions innon-limiting aspects can have a pH of about 6 to about 9. In otheraspects, the pH can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14.

The compositions of the present invention can also include any one of,any combination of, or all of the following additional ingredients:water, a chelating agent, a moisturizing agent, a preservative, athickening agent, a silicone containing compound, an essential oil, astructuring agent, a vitamin, a pharmaceutical ingredient, or anantioxidant, or any combination of such ingredients or mixtures of suchingredients. In certain aspects, the composition can include at leasttwo, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or all of theseadditional ingredients identified in the previous sentence. Non-limitingexamples of these additional ingredients are identified throughout thisspecification and are incorporated into this section by reference. Theamounts of such ingredients can range from 0.0001% to 99.9% by weight orvolume of the composition, or any integer or range in between asdisclosed in other sections of this specification, which areincorporated into this paragraph by reference.

Kits that include the compositions of the present invention are alsocontemplated. In certain embodiments, the composition is comprised in acontainer. The container can be a bottle, dispenser, or package. Thecontainer can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition. Incertain aspects, the compositions is dispensed in a spray, dollop, orliquid. The container can include indicia on its surface. The indiciacan be a word, an abbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed in this specificationcan be implemented with respect to any method or composition of theinvention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the inventioncan be used to achieve methods of the invention.

In one embodiment, compositions of the present invention can bepharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant or can have pleasant tactileproperties. “Pharmaceutically elegant,” “cosmetically elegant,” and/or“pleasant tactile properties” describes a composition that hasparticular tactile properties which feel pleasant on the skin (e.g.,compositions that are not too watery or greasy, compositions that have asilky texture, compositions that are non-tacky or sticky, etc.).Pharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant can also relate to thecreaminess or lubricity properties of the composition or to the moistureretaining properties of the composition.

The compositions and methods for their use can “comprise,” “consistessentially of,” or “consist of” any of the ingredients disclosedthroughout the specification. For purposes of consisting essentially ofmeans that inclusion of additional ingredients in the compositions donot materially affect the properties of the aforementioned combinationof botanical plant extracts and cosmetic vehicle. One such instancewould be the inclusion of an ingredient that has a detrimental effect(e.g., reducing the efficacy or stability) on any one of the ingredientsidentified said combination.

“Acne” includes pimples, black heads, white heads, papules, nodules,pustules, inflammatory lesions, or cysts.

“Topical application” means to apply or spread a composition onto thesurface of lips or keratinous tissue. “Topical skin composition”includes compositions suitable for topical application on lips orkeratinous tissue. Such compositions are typicallydermatologically-acceptable in that they do not have undue toxicity,incompatibility, instability, allergic response, and the like, whenapplied to lips or skin. Topical skin care compositions of the presentinvention can have a selected viscosity to avoid significant dripping orpooling after application to skin.

“Keratinous tissue” includes keratin-containing layers disposed as theoutermost protective covering of mammals and includes, but is notlimited to, lips, skin, hair and nails.

The term “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to asunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limitingembodiment the terms are defined to be within 10%, preferably within 5%,more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.5%.

The term “substantially” and its variations are defined as being largelybut not necessarily wholly what is specified as understood by one ofordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodimentsubstantially refers to ranges within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, orwithin 0.5%.

The terms “inhibiting” or “reducing” or “treating” or any variation ofthese terms, when used in the claims and/or the specification includesany measurable decrease or complete inhibition to achieve a desiredresult.

The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and/orclaims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intendedresult.

The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term“comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one,” butit is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,”and “one or more than one.”

As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (andany form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having”(and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and anyform of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing”(and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) areinclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecitedelements or method steps.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description. It should beunderstood, however, that the detailed description and the examples,while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by wayof illustration only. Additionally, it is contemplated that changes andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Given the number of various products on the market today and the myriadof different skin-types, a person is oftentimes at a loss to identify anappropriate product for an appropriate skin type.

The cosmetic toners of the present invention can be used to maintain andimprove the health of a variety of skin types. For instance, the tonersprovide many advantages including: removal of impure elements such assebum from the skin; unclog skin pores; correct or balance the pH levelsof upset skin; refresh and rejuvenate the skin; smoothen and tightenskin pores; and prepare the skin for subsequent application of a skinmoisturizer product. These toners utilize unique combinations ofbotanical ingredients, which can be used to create a formulation for aparticular skin type (e.g., normal, dry, oily, or combination skin), andan underlying base set of ingredients for the cosmetic vehicle.

These and other non-limiting aspects of the present invention aredescribed in further detail below.

A. Toners

People who use cosmetic products oftentimes use a variety of differentproducts throughout the day. Such a regimen can include cleansing theskin followed by toning the skin, followed by moisturizing the skin. Insome instances, people will also use cosmetic masks in the evening,which can a heavier product that provides deep and prolonged cleansing,exfoliating, and/or moisturization of the skin.

As the name suggests, cleansers are designed to cleanse the skin byremoving dirt, cosmetic products, and sebum. Cleansers can leaveresidual elements on the skin (e.g., soapy film). Further, due to thecleansing properties, cleansers can change the pH levels of the surfaceof the skin, which can result in irritated or reddened skin. Toners,such as those discovered by the inventors, can be used to remove thesoapy residue, restore or balance the pH levels of the skin, and calmand soothe the skin from the caustic and irritating effects ofcleansers. Further, toners can be used to prime the surface of the skinfor further application of a skin moisturization product.

Toners are typically categorized into three subsets or species oftoners, which include fresheners (milder and typically used for dryskin), tonics (stronger and typically used for normal, oily, ornormal/oily combination skin), and astringents (strongest and typicallyused for oily skin). The toners of the present invention tend to fallwithin the first class, fresheners. What is particularly unique is thatthe toners of the present invention can be used across all skin typesand are not limited to a particular skin type. In this sense, while thetoners of the present invention could be categorized as fresheners, theycan be used effectively on dry skin, normal skin, oily skin, orcombination skin. Therefore, the toners of the present invention aremild on the skin yet can benefit all types of skin.

The mildness of the toners of the present invention is derived from theunderlying cosmetic vehicle, whereas the skin type is derived from thebotanical plants. Therefore, the combination of the two provide a uniquetoning formulation with wide applications.

B. Determining Skin-Type

A first step in using the toners of the present invention can be todetermine a user's skin type. As noted above, there are three main skintypes: (1) normal skin; (2) dry skin; and (3) oily skin. A fourth skintype is simply a combination of any one of normal, dry, or oily skin(e.g., normal/dry, normal/oily, oily/dry). There are also well-knownmethods for determining a person's skin type.

For instance, normal skin can be identified as having a smooth textureand no greasy patches or flaky areas. Therefore, a product that canretain skin moisture in its present form can be used to maintain theappearance of normal skin.

As for dry skin, it has a low level of sebum production from sebaceousglands and is prone to irritation or erythema. The appearance of dryskin has a parched look caused by the skin's inability to retainmoisture. Oftentimes it feels “tight” and uncomfortable after washingand is prone to chapping, flaking, and cracking. Dry skin can beexacerbated by wind, extremes of temperature and air-conditioning, allof which cause the skin to flake, chap and feel tight. Dry skintypically has a dull appearance. Therefore, a product that deliverappropriate hydration and restore moisture to dry skin can be used tocounteract the effects of dry skin.

With respect to oily skin, such skin is shiny, thick and dull colored.It feels oily and has coarse pores and pimples and other unsightlyblemishes due to overproduction of sebum from sebaceous glands and fromclogged/blocked pores. In this regard, oily skin usually has oilproducing sebaceous glands that are overactive and produce more oil thanis needed. The oil oozes and gives the skin a greasy shine. The poresare enlarged and the skin has a coarse look. Therefore, a product thatcan help control skin surface oiliness while also cleansing cloggedpores can be used to counteract the effects of oily skin.

As noted above, combination skin is a combination of both oily, dry,and/or normal skin (e.g., normal/dry, oily/dry, normal/oily). Foroily/dry skin, there is typically a greasy center panel consisting ofnose, forehead and chin (also known as the “T-zone” of a person's face)and a dry panel consisting of cheeks, mouth and the areas around theeyes. Therefore, a product that can control the excess oil production insebaceous glands in the T-zone while also hydrating the dry skin areasoutside of the T-zone can be used for such oily/dry skin.

Once a particular skin-type is identified, a person can then select anappropriate composition to correct or maintain the skin-type.

C. Botanical Combinations

The inventors discovered that the combination of a particular set ofbotanical extracts with an underlying cosmetic vehicle works well acrossall skin types. Such a product can be particularly beneficial forcombination skin or for skin that may be in between dry skin and normalskin, normal skin and oily skin, or dry skin and oily skin. Thecombination of botanicals that can be used across all skin typesincludes Silybum marianum fruit extract and Momordica grosvenorii fruitextract.

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a plant native to Southern Europe andAsia. It is known for producing red to purple flowers, shiny pale greenleaves with white veins, and fruit. The Silybum marianum extract of thepresent invention can be a hydroalcoholic (water and alcohol denat)extract that includes silymarin as an active ingredient (silymarin is amixture of flavanonol derivatives that includes silibine, silicristine,silidianin, isosolibine, and isosilicristine). The fruit portion ofSilybum marianum includes silymarin. The Silybum marianum extract can beobtained from the fruit portion of this plant by mascerating the fruitpulp and then subjecting the pulp to a hydroalcoholic solution of waterand SD alcohol 39-C (alcohol denat.) to obtain the extract. The extractcan then filtered and packaged for storage or be added to a compositionof the present invention. In addition to this extraction process,Silybum marianum extract can be purchased from Provital S.A (SPAIN)under the trade names PRONALEN SILYMARIN HSC or PRONALEN SILYMARIN SPE.

Luo han guo (Momordica grosvenori) is a perennial vine that grows 3-5meters long with narrow heart shaped leaves and green round fruit 5-7 cmin diameter. This plant is native to southern China. The fruit has beenused as a natural food sweetener in China for several decades. The luohan guo extract of the present invention can be obtained from the fruitportion of this plant by macerating the fruit pulp and then subjectingthe pulp to a hydroglycolic solution of water, glycerin, andpreservatives to obtain the extract. The extract can then filtered andpackaged for storage or be added to a composition of the presentinvention. In addition to this extraction process, luo han guo fruitextract can be purchased from Carrubba Inc., Milford, Conn. (USA).

1. Dry Skin

The addition of Linum usitatissimum seed extract and hydrolyzed algin tothe Silybum marianum fruit extract and the Momordica grosvenori fruitcombination was found to work well on dry skin.

Flax seed (Linum usitatissimum (Linseed)) is an annual, biennial orperennial herb that can reach 3 feet in height. It includes a slenderstem, lance-shaped leaves, and can produce ski-blue flowers and oilybrown seeds. This plant is native to Europe and Asia. The flax seedextract of the present invention can be obtained from the seed portionof this plant by macerating the seed and then subjecting the seed to ahydroglycolic solution of water and glycerin to obtain the extract. Theextract can then filtered and packaged for storage or be added to acomposition of the present invention. In addition to this extractionprocess, flax seed extract can be purchased from Carrubba Inc., Milford,Conn. (USA).

Hydrolyzed algin can be obtained from Laminaria digitata, which is abrown alga, that is found in the littoral zone of bodies of water. Thehydrolyzed algin can be an aqueous solution of an oligosaccharide thatcan be produced by controlled enzymatic depolymerization of membranouspolysaccharides from Laminaria digitata. The structure of theoligosaccharide is a chain of 2 uronic acids: mannuronic and guluronic,which can be illustrated as follows:

In addition to this production process, hydrolyzed algin can bepurchased from Barnet Products Corp., Englewood Cliffs, N.J. (USA) underthe trade name PHYKO AL-PF.

2. Normal Skin

The addition of Plumeria alba flower extract and Nymphaea giganteaflower extract to the Silybum marianum fruit extract and Momordicagrosvenorii fruit extract combination was found to work well on normalskin.

Plumeria alba (Frangipani) is a large evergreen shrub with narrowelongated leaves and large white followers that have a yellow center. Itis native to Central America and the Caribbean. The frangipani flowerextract of the present invention can be obtained from the flower portionof this plant by macerating the flower and then subjecting the flower toan aqueous extraction process. The extract can then be filtered, placedin a butylene glycol solution, and packaged for storage or be added to acomposition of the present invention. In addition to this extractionprocess, frangipani flower extract can be purchased from Southern CrossBotanicals, New South Wales (AUSTRALIA) under the trade name ABACROSSFRANGIPANI FLOWER BG.

Nymphea gigantea (Giant Water Lily) is a tropical plant that is nativeto the tropical and subtropical regions of Australia. This plant canproduce large (up to 25 cm) blue-white flowers that emerge from thewater and large circular leaves that grow up to 75 cm in diameter. TheNymphea gigantea flower extract of the present invention can be obtainedfrom the flower portion of this plant by macerating the flower and thensubjecting the flower to an aqueous extraction process. The extract canthen be filtered, placed in a butylene glycol solution, and packaged forstorage or be added to a composition of the present invention. Inaddition to this extraction process, frangipani flower extract can bepurchased from Southern Cross Botanicals, New South Wales (AUSTRALIA)under the trade name ABACROSS WATER LILY BG.

3. Oily Skin

The addition of Psidium guajava fruit extract and Kunzea ericoides leafextract to the Silybum marianum fruit extract and Momordica grosvenoriifruit extract combination was found to work well on oily skin.

Guava or Psidium guajava is an evergreen tree or shrub that can reach 6to 25 feet in height. It produces green leaves, fragrant white flowers,and fruit. The fruit is pear-shaped and 3 to 6 cm in length. When ripe,the skin of the fruit has a reddish-yellow color. This plant is nativeto the region spanning Mexico to northern South America. The fruitportion of guava is used in the context of the present invention toobtain the extract. The guava fruit extract of the present invention canbe produced by macerating the fruit pulp and then subjecting the pulp toa hydroglycolic solution of water and glycerin to obtain the extract.The extract can then be filtered and packaged for storage. In additionto this extraction process, guava fruit extract of the present inventioncan be purchased from Carrubba Inc., Milford, Conn. (USA).

Kanuka or Kunzea ericoides is a tree that can reach up to 30 meters inheight. The leaves have an oval shape and the flowers are white. Thisplant is native to Australia and New Zealand. The Kunzea ericoides leafextract of the present invention can be obtained from the leaf portionof this plant by macerating the leaf and then subjecting the leaf to anaqueous extraction process. The extract can then be filtered, placed ina butylene glycol solution, and packaged for storage or be added to acomposition of the present invention. In addition to this extractionprocess, kanuka leaf extract can be purchased from Southern CrossBotanicals, New South Wales (AUSTRALIA) under the trade name ABACROSSKANUKA BG.

D. Cosmetic Vehicle

As noted above, the inventors discovered a cosmetic vehicle that can beused to create a toner for various skin types. That is, the vehicle canbe used in toners designed for dry skin, oily skin, normal skin, andcombination skin. The vehicle includes at least 80% w/w of the tonercomposition of water. In addition, it also includes butylene glycol,glycerin, diazolidinyl urea, methylparaben, disodium EDTA, simethicone,PPG-26, PEG/PPG-22/23 dimethicone, citric acid, phenoxyethanol,potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate and ethylhexylglycerin. As discussedin the summary of the invention section, the amounts of the ingredientswithin the cosmetic vehicle can vary to establish a desired consistencyor rheological property and to account for additional botanicalingredients being added. Further the vehicle can even include furtheringredients as desired. Suppliers for each of these ingredients arereadily available (see, e.g., (CTFA, 12^(th) Edition, Volumes 1-4(2008), the relevant sections of which are incorporated by reference).

E. Amounts/Concentration Ranges

In addition to what has previously been discussed, it is alsocontemplated that the compositions of the present invention can includeany amount of the ingredients or additional cosmetic or pharmaceuticalingredients described in this specification. The concentrations of theany ingredient within the compositions can vary. In non-limitingembodiments, for example, the compositions can comprise, consistingessentially of, or consist of, in their final form, for example, atleast about 0.0001%, 0.0002%, 0.0003%, 0.0004%, 0.0005%, 0.0006%,0.0007%, 0.0008%, 0.0009%, 0.0010%, 0.0011%, 0.0012%, 0.0013%, 0.0014%,0.0015%, 0.0016%, 0.0017%, 0.0018%, 0.0019%, 0.0020%, 0.0021%, 0.0022%,0.0023%, 0.0024%, 0.0025%, 0.0026%, 0.0027%, 0.0028%, 0.0029%, 0.0030%,0.0031%, 0.0032%, 0.0033%, 0.0034%, 0.0035%, 0.0036%, 0.0037%, 0.0038%,0.0039%, 0.0040%, 0.0041%, 0.0042%, 0.0043%, 0.0044%, 0.0045%, 0.0046%,0.0047%, 0.0048%, 0.0049%, 0.0050%, 0.0051%, 0.0052%, 0.0053%, 0.0054%,0.0055%, 0.0056%, 0.0057%, 0.0058%, 0.0059%, 0.0060%, 0.0061%, 0.0062%,0.0063%, 0.0064%, 0.0065%, 0.0066%, 0.0067%, 0.0068%, 0.0069%, 0.0070%,0.0071%, 0.0072%, 0.0073%, 0.0074%, 0.0075%, 0.0076%, 0.0077%, 0.0078%,0.0079%, 0.0080%, 0.0081%, 0.0082%, 0.0083%, 0.0084%, 0.0085%, 0.0086%,0.0087%, 0.0088%, 0.0089%, 0.0090%, 0.0091%, 0.0092%, 0.0093%, 0.0094%,0.0095%, 0.0096%, 0.0097%, 0.0098%, 0.0099%, 0.0100%, 0.0200%, 0.0250%,0.0275%, 0.0300%, 0.0325%, 0.0350%, 0.0375%, 0.0400%, 0.0425%, 0.0450%,0.0475%, 0.0500%, 0.0525%, 0.0550%, 0.0575%, 0.0600%, 0.0625%, 0.0650%,0.0675%, 0.0700%, 0.0725%, 0.0750%, 0.0775%, 0.0800%, 0.0825%, 0.0850%,0.0875%, 0.0900%, 0.0925%, 0.0950%, 0.0975%, 0.1000%, 0.1250%, 0.1500%,0.1750%, 0.2000%, 0.2250%, 0.2500%, 0.2750%, 0.3000%, 0.3250%, 0.3500%,0.3750%, 0.4000%, 0.4250%, 0.4500%, 0.4750%, 0.5000%, 0.5250%, 0.0550%,0.5750%, 0.6000%, 0.6250%, 0.6500%, 0.6750%, 0.7000%, 0.7250%, 0.7500%,0.7750%, 0.8000%, 0.8250%, 0.8500%, 0.8750%, 0.9000%, 0.9250%, 0.9500%,0.9750%, 1.0%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%,2.0%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3.0%, 3.1%,3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4.0%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%,4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5.0%, 5.1%, 5.2%, 5.3%, 5.4%, 5.5%,5.6%, 5.7%, 5.8%, 5.9%, 6.0%, 6.1%, 6.2%, 6.3%, 6.4%, 6.5%, 6.6%, 6.7%,6.8%, 6.9%, 7.0%, 7.1%, 7.2%, 7.3%, 7.4%, 7.5%, 7.6%, 7.7%, 7.8%, 7.9%,8.0%, 8.1%, 8.2%, 8.3%, 8.4%, 8.5%, 8.6%, 8.7%, 8.8%, 8.9%, 9.0%, 9.1%,9.2%, 9.3%, 9.4%, 9.5%, 9.6%, 9.7%, 9.8%, 9.9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%,15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%,29%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or99% or any range derivable therein, of at least one of the ingredientsthat are mentioned throughout the specification and claims. Innon-limiting aspects, the percentage can be calculated by weight orvolume of the total composition. A person of ordinary skill in the artwould understand that the concentrations can vary depending on theaddition, substitution, and/or subtraction of ingredients in a givencomposition.

F. Additional Ingredients

In addition to the botanical extracts and cosmetic vehicle ingredients,the compositions of the present invention can include additionalingredients such as cosmetic ingredients and pharmaceutical activeingredients. Non-limiting examples of these additional ingredients aredescribed in the following subsections.

1. Cosmetic Ingredients

The CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook(2008) describes a wide variety of non-limiting cosmetic ingredientsthat can be used in the context of the present invention. Examples ofthese ingredient classes include: fragrances (artificial and natural),dyes and color ingredients (e.g., Blue 1, Blue 1 Lake, Red 40, titaniumdioxide, D&C blue no. 4, D&C green no. 5, D&C orange no. 4, D&C red no.17, D&C red no. 33, D&C violet no. 2, D&C yellow no. 10, and D&C yellowno. 11), adsorbents, lubricants, solvents, moisturizers (including,e.g., emollients, humectants, film formers, occlusive agents, and agentsthat affect the natural moisturization mechanisms of the skin),water-repellants, UV absorbers (physical and chemical absorbers such asparaaminobenzoic acid (“PABA”) and corresponding PABA derivatives,titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, etc.), essential oils, vitamins (e.g. A,B, C, D, E, and K), trace metals (e.g. zinc, calcium and selenium),anti-irritants (e.g. steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories),botanical extracts (e.g. aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber extract, Ginkgobiloba, ginseng, and rosemary), anti-microbial agents, antioxidants(e.g., BHT and tocopherol), chelating agents (e.g., disodium EDTA andtetrasodium EDTA), preservatives (e.g., methylparaben andpropylparaben), pH adjusters (e.g., sodium hydroxide and citric acid),absorbents (e.g., aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, kaolin, corn starch,oat starch, cyclodextrin, talc, and zeolite), skin bleaching andlightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone and niacinamide lactate),humectants (e.g., sorbitol, urea, and manitol), exfoliants,waterproofing agents (e.g., magnesium/aluminum hydroxide stearate), skinconditioning agents (e.g., aloe extracts, allantoin, bisabolol,ceramides, dimethicone, hyaluronic acid, and dipotassium glycyrrhizate).Non-limiting examples of some of these ingredients are provided in thefollowing subsections.

a. UV Absorption Agents

UV absorption agents that can be used in combination with thecompositions of the present invention include chemical and physicalsunblocks. Non-limiting examples of chemical sunblocks that can be usedinclude para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), PABA esters (glyceryl PABA,amyldimethyl PABA and octyldimethyl PABA), butyl PABA, ethyl PABA, ethyldihydroxypropyl PABA, benzophenones (oxybenzone, sulisobenzone,benzophenone, and benzophenone-1 through 12), cinnamates (octylmethoxycinnamate, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, octylmethoxy cinnamate,cinoxate, diisopropyl methyl cinnamate, DEA-methoxycinnamate, ethyldiisopropylcinnamate, glyceryl octanoate dimethoxycinnamate and ethylmethoxycinnamate), cinnamate esters, salicylates (homomethyl salicylate,benzyl salicylate, glycol salicylate, isopropylbenzyl salicylate, etc.),anthranilates, ethyl urocanate, homosalate, octisalate, dibenzoylmethanederivatives (e.g., avobenzone), octocrylene, octyl triazone, digalloytrioleate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, lawsone with dihydroxyacetone,ethylhexyl triazone, dioctyl butamido triazone, benzylidene malonatepolysiloxane, terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, disodium phenyldibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexylbenzoate, bis diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl benzoate, bisbenzoxazoylphenyl ethylhexylimino triazine, drometrizole trisiloxane,methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutyiphenol, andbis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyltriazine,4-methylbenzylidenecamphor, and isopentyl 4-methoxycinnamate.Non-limiting examples of physical sunblocks include, kaolin, talc,petrolatum and metal oxides (e.g., titanium dioxide and zinc oxide).

b. Moisturizing Agents

Non-limiting examples of moisturizing agents that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include amino acids, chondroitinsulfate, diglycerin, erythritol, fructose, glucose, glycerin, glycerolpolymers, glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, honey, hyaluronic acid,hydrogenated honey, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, inositol, lactitol,maltitol, maltose, mannitol, natural moisturizing factor, PEG-15butanediol, polyglyceryl sorbitol, salts of pyrollidone carboxylic acid,potassium PCA, propylene glycol, sodium glucuronate, sodium PCA,sorbitol, sucrose, trehalose, urea, and xylitol.

Other examples include acetylated lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol,alanine, algae extract, aloe barbadensis, aloe-barbadensis extract, aloebarbadensis gel, althea officinalis extract, apricot (Prunus armeniaca)kernel oil, arginine, arginine aspartate, arnica montana extract,aspartic acid, avocado (Persea gratissima) oil, barrier sphingolipids,butyl alcohol, beeswax, behenyl alcohol, beta-sitosterol, birch (Betulaalba) bark extract, borage (Borago officinalis) extract, butcherbroom(Ruscus aculeatus) extract, butylene glycol, Calendula officinalisextract, Calendula officinalis oil, candelilla (Euphorbia cerifera) wax,canola oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cardamon (Elettariacardamomum) oil, carnauba (Copernicia cerifera) wax, carrot (Daucuscarota sativa) oil, castor (Ricinus communis) oil, ceramides, ceresin,ceteareth-5, ceteareth-12, ceteareth-20, cetearyl octanoate, ceteth-20,ceteth-24, cetyl acetate, cetyl octanoate, cetyl palmitate, chamomile(Anthemis nobilis) oil, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, cholesterylhydroxystearate, citric acid, clary (Salvia sclarea) oil, cocoa(Theobroma cacao) butter, coco-caprylate/caprate, coconut (Cocosnucifera) oil, collagen, collagen amino acids, corn (Zea mays) oil,fatty acids, decyl oleate, dimethicone copolyol, dimethiconol, dioctyladipate, dioctyl succinate, dipentaerythrityl hexacaprylate/hexacaprate,DNA, erythritol, ethoxydiglycol, ethyl linoleate, Eucalyptus globulusoil, evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) oil, fatty acids, geraniummaculatum oil, glucosamine, glucose glutamate, glutamic acid,glycereth-26, glycerin, glycerol, glyceryl distearate, glycerylhydroxystearate, glyceryl laurate, glyceryl linoleate, glycerylmyristate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE,glycine, glycol stearate, glycol stearate SE, glycosaminoglycans, grape(Vitis vinifera) seed oil, hazel (Corylus americana) nut oil, hazel(Corylus avellana) nut oil, hexylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, hybridsafflower (Carthamus tinctorius) oil, hydrogenated castor oil,hydrogenated coco-glycerides, hydrogenated coconut oil, hydrogenatedlanolin, hydrogenated lecithin, hydrogenated palm glyceride,hydrogenated palm kernel oil, hydrogenated soybean oil, hydrogenatedtallow glyceride, hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrolyzed collagen,hydrolyzed elastin, hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans, hydrolyzed keratin,hydrolyzed soy protein, hydroxylated lanolin, hydroxyproline, isocetylstearate, isocetyl stearoyl stearate, isodecyl oleate, isopropylisostearate, isopropyl lanolate, isopropyl myristate, isopropylpalmitate, isopropyl stearate, isostearamide DEA, isostearic acid,isostearyl lactate, isostearyl neopentanoate, jasmine (Jasminumofficinale) oil, jojoba (Buxus chinensis) oil, kelp, kukui (Aleuritesmoluccana) nut oil, lactamide MEA, laneth-16, laneth-10 acetate,lanolin, lanolin acid, lanolin alcohol, lanolin oil, lanolin wax,lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil, lecithin, lemon (Citrus medicalimonum) oil, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, macadamia ternifolia nutoil, maltitol, matricaria (Chamomilla recutita) oil, methyl glucosesesquistearate, methylsilanol PCA, mineral oil, mink oil, mortierellaoil, myristyl lactate, myristyl myristate, myristyl propionate,neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, octyldodecanol, octyldodecylmyristate, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate, octyl hydroxystearate, octylpalmitate, octyl salicylate, octyl stearate, oleic acid, olive (Oleaeuropaea) oil, orange (Citrus aurantium dulcis) oil, palm (Elaeisguineensis) oil, palmitic acid, pantethine, panthenol, panthenyl ethylether, paraffin, PCA, peach (Prunus persica) kernel oil, peanut (Arachishypogaea) oil, PEG-8 C12-18 ester, PEG-15 cocamine, PEG-150 distearate,PEG-60 glyceryl isostearate, PEG-5 glyceryl stearate, PEG-30 glycerylstearate, PEG-7 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate,PEG40 sorbitan peroleate, PEG-5 soy sterol, PEG-10 soy sterol, PEG-2stearate, PEG-8 stearate, PEG-20 stearate, PEG-32 stearate, PEG40stearate, PEG-50 stearate, PEG-100 stearate, PEG-150 stearate,pentadecalactone, peppermint (Mentha piperita) oil, petrolatum,phospholipids, polyamino sugar condensate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate,polyquaternium-24, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60,polysorbate 80, polysorbate 85, potassium myristate, potassiumpalmitate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate,propylene glycol dioctanoate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propyleneglycol laurate, propylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol stearate SE,PVP, pyridoxine dipalmitate, retinol, retinyl palmitate, rice (Oryzasativa) bran oil, RNA, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) oil, rose oil,safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) oil, sage (Salvia officinalis) oil,sandalwood (Santalum album) oil, serine, serum protein, sesame (Sesamumindicum) oil, shea butter (Butyrospermum parkii), silk powder, sodiumchondroitin sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium lactate, sodiumpalmitate, sodium PCA, sodium polyglutamate, soluble collagen, sorbitanlaurate, sorbitan oleate, sorbitan palmitate, sorbitan sesquioleate,sorbitan stearate, sorbitol, soybean (Glycine soja) oil, sphingolipids,squalane, squalene, stearamide MEA-stearate, stearic acid, stearoxydimethicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, stearyl alcohol, stearylglycyrrhetinate, stearyl heptanoate, stearyl stearate, sunflower(Helianthus annuus) seed oil, sweet almond (Prunus amygdalus dulcis)oil, synthetic beeswax, tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryllinoleate, tribehenin, tridecyl neopentanoate, tridecyl stearate,triethanolamine, tristearin, urea, vegetable oil, water, waxes, wheat(Triticum vulgare) germ oil, and ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) oil.

c. Antioxidants

Non-limiting examples of antioxidants that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include acetyl cysteine, ascorbicacid polypeptide, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl methylsilanolpectinate, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, BHA, BHT, t-butylhydroquinone, cysteine, cysteine HCl, diamylhydroquinone,di-t-butylhydroquinone, dicetyl thiodipropionate, dioleyl tocopherylmethylsilanol, disodium ascorbyl sulfate, distearyl thiodipropionate,ditridecyl thiodipropionate, dodecyl gallate, erythorbic acid, esters ofascorbic acid, ethyl ferulate, ferulic acid, gallic acid esters,hydroquinone, isooctyl thioglycolate, kojic acid, magnesium ascorbate,magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, methylsilanol ascorbate, natural botanicalanti-oxidants such as green tea or grape seed extracts,nordihydroguaiaretic acid, octyl gallate, phenylthioglycolic acid,potassium ascorbyl tocopheryl phosphate, potassium sulfite, propylgallate, quinones, rosmarinic acid, sodium ascorbate, sodium bisulfite,sodium erythorbate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite, superoxidedismutase, sodium thioglycolate, sorbityl furfural, thiodiglycol,thiodiglycolamide, thiodiglycolic acid, thioglycolic acid, thiolacticacid, thiosalicylic acid, tocophereth-5, tocophereth-10, tocophereth-12,tocophereth-18, tocophereth-50, tocopherol, tocophersolan, tocopherylacetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocopheryl nicotinate, tocopherylsuccinate, and tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite.

d. Structuring Agents

In other non-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present inventioncan include a structuring agent. Structuring agent, in certain aspects,assist in providing rheological characteristics to the composition tocontribute to the composition's stability. In other aspects, structuringagents can also function as an emulsifier or surfactant. Non-limitingexamples of structuring agents include stearic acid, palmitic acid,stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, stearic acid, palmiticacid, the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol having an averageof about 1 to about 21 ethylene oxide units, the polyethylene glycolether of cetyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 5 ethyleneoxide units, and mixtures thereof.

e. Emulsifiers

In certain aspects of the present invention, the compositions do notinclude an emulsifier. In other aspects, however, the compositions caninclude one or more emulsifiers. Emulsifiers can reduce the interfacialtension between phases and improve the formulation and stability of anemulsion. The emulsifiers can be nonionic, cationic, anionic, andzwitterionic emulsifiers (See McCutcheon's (1986); U.S. Pat. Nos.5,011,681; 4,421,769; 3,755,560). Non-limiting examples include estersof glycerin, esters of propylene glycol, fatty acid esters ofpolyethylene glycol, fatty acid esters of polypropylene glycol, estersof sorbitol, esters of sorbitan anhydrides, carboxylic acid copolymers,esters and ethers of glucose, ethoxylated ethers, ethoxylated alcohols,alkyl phosphates, polyoxyethylene fatty ether phosphates, fatty acidamides, acyl lactylates, soaps, TEA stearate, DEA oleth-3 phosphate,polyethylene glycol 20 sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20),polyethylene glycol 5 soya sterol, steareth-2, steareth-20, steareth-21,ceteareth-20, PPG-2 methyl glucose ether distearate, ceteth-10,polysorbate 80, cetyl phosphate, potassium cetyl phosphate,diethanolamine cetyl phosphate, polysorbate 60, glyceryl stearate,PEG-100 stearate, and mixtures thereof.

f. Silicone Containing Compounds

In non-limiting aspects, silicone containing compounds include anymember of a family of polymeric products whose molecular backbone ismade up of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms with side groupsattached to the silicon atoms. By varying the —Si—O— chain lengths, sidegroups, and crosslinking, silicones can be synthesized into a widevariety of materials. They can vary in consistency from liquid to gel tosolids.

The silicone containing compounds that can be used in the context of thepresent invention include those described in this specification or thoseknown to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Non-limiting examplesinclude silicone oils (e.g., volatile and non-volatile oils), gels, andsolids. In certain aspects, the silicon containing compounds includes asilicone oils such as a polyorganosiloxane. Non-limiting examples ofpolyorganosiloxanes include dimethicone, cyclomethicone,polysilicone-11, phenyl trimethicone, trimethylsilylamodimethicone,stearoxytrimethylsilane, or mixtures of these and other organosiloxanematerials in any given ratio in order to achieve the desired consistencyand application characteristics depending upon the intended application(e.g., to a particular area such as the skin, hair, or eyes). A“volatile silicone oil” includes a silicone oil have a low heat ofvaporization, i.e. normally less than about 50 cal per gram of siliconeoil. Non-limiting examples of volatile silicone oils include:cyclomethicones such as Dow Corning 344 Fluid, Dow Corning 345 Fluid,Dow Corning 244 Fluid, and Dow Corning 245 Fluid, Volatile Silicon 7207(Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, Conn.); low viscosity dimethicones, i.e.dimethicones having a viscosity of about 50 cst or less (e.g.,dimethicones such as Dow Corning 200-0.5 cst Fluid). The Dow CorningFluids are available from Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich.Cyclomethicone and dimethicone are described in the Third Edition of theCTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (incorporated by reference) ascyclic dimethyl polysiloxane compounds and a mixture of fully methylatedlinear siloxane polymers end-blocked with trimethylsiloxy units,respectively. Other non-limiting volatile silicone oils that can be usedin the context of the present invention include those available fromGeneral Electric Co., Silicone Products Div., Waterford, N.Y. and SWSSilicones Div. of Stauffer Chemical Co., Adrian, Mich.

g. Essential Oils

Essential oils include oils derived from herbs, flowers, trees, andother plants. Such oils are typically present as tiny droplets betweenthe plant's cells, and can be extracted by several method known to thoseof skill in the art (e.g., steam distilled, enfleurage (i.e., extractionby using fat), maceration, solvent extraction, or mechanical pressing).When these types of oils are exposed to air they tend to evaporate(i.e., a volatile oil). As a result, many essential oils are colorless,but with age they can oxidize and become darker. Essential oils areinsoluble in water and are soluble in alcohol, ether, fixed oils(vegetal), and other organic solvents. Typical physical characteristicsfound in essential oils include boiling points that vary from about 160°to 240° C. and densities ranging from about 0.759 to about 1.096.

Essential oils typically are named by the plant from which the oil isfound. For example, rose oil or peppermint oil are derived from rose orpeppermint plants, respectively. Non-limiting examples of essential oilsthat can be used in the context of the present invention include sesameoil, macadamia nut oil, tea tree oil, evening primrose oil, Spanish sageoil, Spanish rosemary oil, coriander oil, thyme oil, pimento berriesoil, rose oil, anise oil, balsam oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, cedaroil, chamomile oil, sage oil, clary sage oil, clove oil, cypress oil,eucalyptus oil, fennel oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, geraniumoil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lavender oil,lemon oil, lemongrass oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrhoil, neroli oil, orange oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepperoil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, rosemary oil, sandalwoodoil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, wintergreen oil, orylang ylang. Other essential oils known to those of skill in the art arealso contemplated as being useful within the context of the presentinvention.

h. Thickening Agents

Thickening agents, including thickener or gelling agents, includesubstances which that can increase the viscosity of a composition.Thickeners includes those that can increase the viscosity of acomposition without substantially modifying the efficacy of the activeingredient within the composition. Thickeners can also increase thestability of the compositions of the present invention. In certainaspects of the present invention, thickeners include hydrogenatedpolyisobutene or trihydroxystearin, or a mixture of both.

Non-limiting examples of additional thickening agents that can be usedin the context of the present invention include carboxylic acidpolymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers, polyacrylamide polymers,polysaccharides, and gums. Examples of carboxylic acid polymers includecrosslinked compounds containing one or more monomers derived fromacrylic acid, substituted acrylic acids, and salts and esters of theseacrylic acids and the substituted acrylic acids, wherein thecrosslinking agent contains two or more carbon-carbon double bonds andis derived from a polyhydric alcohol (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,087,445;4,509,949; 2,798,053; CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary,Fourth edition, 1991, pp. 12 and 80). Examples of commercially availablecarboxylic acid polymers include carbomers, which are homopolymers ofacrylic acid crosslinked with allyl ethers of sucrose or pentaerytritol(e.g., Carbopol™ 900 series from B. F. Goodrich).

Non-limiting examples of crosslinked polyacrylate polymers includecationic and nonionic polymers. Examples are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,100,660; 4,849,484; 4,835,206; 4,628,078; 4,599,379).

Non-limiting examples of polyacrylamide polymers (including nonionicpolyacrylamide polymers including substituted branched or unbranchedpolymers) include polyacrylamide, isoparaffin and laureth-7, multi-blockcopolymers of acrylamides and substituted acrylamides with acrylic acidsand substituted acrylic acids.

Non-limiting examples of polysaccharides include cellulose,carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionatecarboxylate, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof. Another example is an alkyl substitutedcellulose where the hydroxy groups of the cellulose polymer ishydroxyalkylated (preferably hydroxy ethylated or hydroxypropylated) toform a hydroxyalkylated cellulose which is then further modified with aC₁₀-C₃₀ straight chain or branched chain alkyl group through an etherlinkage. Typically these polymers are ethers of C₁₀-C₃₀ straight orbranched chain alcohols with hydroxyalkylcelluloses. Other usefulpolysaccharides include scleroglucans comprising a linear chain of (1-3)linked glucose units with a (1-6) linked glucose every three unit.

Non-limiting examples of gums that can be used with the presentinvention include acacia, agar, algin, alginic acid, ammonium alginate,amylopectin, calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, carnitine,carrageenan, dextrin, gelatin, gellan gum, guar gum, guarhydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hectorite, hyaluroinic acid, hydratedsilica, hydroxypropyl chitosan, hydroxypropyl guar, karaya gum, kelp,locust bean gum, natto gum, potassium alginate, potassium carrageenan,propylene glycol alginate, sclerotium gum, sodium carboyxmethyl dextran,sodium carrageenan, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, and mixtures thereof.

i. Preservatives

Non-limiting examples of preservatives that can be used in the contextof the present invention include quaternary ammonium preservatives suchas polyquaternium-1 and benzalkonium halides (e.g., benzalkoniumchloride (“BAC”) and benzalkonium bromide), parabens (e.g.,methylparabens and propylparabens), phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol,chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, thimerosal or combinations thereof.

2. Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Pharmaceutical active agents are also contemplated as being useful withthe compositions of the present invention. Non-limiting examples ofpharmaceutical active agents include anti-acne agents, agents used totreat rosacea, analgesics, anesthetics, anorectals, antihistamines,anti-inflammatory agents including non-steroidal anti-inflammatorydrugs, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimicrobials, anti-canceractives, scabicides, pediculicides, antineoplastics, antiperspirants,antipruritics, antipsoriatic agents, antiseborrheic agents, biologicallyactive proteins and peptides, burn treatment agents, cauterizing agents,depigmenting agents, depilatories, diaper rash treatment agents,enzymes, hair growth stimulants, hair growth retardants including DFMOand its salts and analogs, hemostatics, kerotolytics, canker soretreatment agents, cold sore treatment agents, dental and periodontaltreatment agents, photosensitizing actives, skin protectant/barrieragents, steroids including hormones and corticosteroids, sunburntreatment agents, sunscreens, transdermal actives, nasal actives,vaginal actives, wart treatment agents, wound treatment agents, woundhealing agents, etc.

G. Kits

Kits are also contemplated as being used in certain aspects of thepresent invention. For instance, compositions of the present inventioncan be included in a kit. A kit can include a container. Containers caninclude a bottle, a metal tube, a laminate tube, a plastic tube, adispenser, a pressurized container, a barrier container, a package, acompartment, a lipstick container, a compact container, cosmetic pansthat can hold cosmetic compositions, or other types of containers suchas injection or blow-molded plastic containers into which thedispersions or compositions or desired bottles, dispensers, or packagesare retained. The kit and/or container can include indicia on itssurface. The indicia, for example, can be a word, a phrase, anabbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

The containers can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition.In other embodiments, the container can be squeezed (e.g., metal,laminate, or plastic tube) to dispense a desired amount of thecomposition. The composition can be dispensed as a spray, an aerosol, aliquid, a fluid, or a semi-solid. The containers can have spray, pump,or squeeze mechanisms. A kit can also include instructions for employingthe kit components as well the use of any other compositions included inthe container. Instructions can include an explanation of how to apply,use, and maintain the compositions.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are included to demonstrate certain non-limitingaspects of the invention. It should be appreciated by those of skill inthe art that the techniques disclosed in the examples which followrepresent techniques discovered by the inventor to function well in thepractice of the invention. However, those of skill in the art should, inlight of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can bemade in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain alike or similar result without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention.

Example 1

The formulations in Tables 1-4 are each fresheners. The Table 1formulation is a generic formulation, whereas the Table 2-4 formulationsare particular formulations. The generic formulation can be used for allskin types (dry, normal, oily, combination). The Table 2 formulation isdesigned for dry skin. The Table 3 formulation is designed for normalskin. The Table 4 formulation is designed for oily skin.

TABLE 1* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. (at least 80%by weight of water) Butylene glycol 2 to 8 Glycerin 1 to 5 Diazolidinylurea 0.1 to 0.3 Methylparaben 0.1 to 0.2 Disodium EDTA 0.05 to 0.1Simethicone 0.002 to 0.003 PPG-26 0.001 to 0.002 PEG/PPG-22/23Dimethicone 0.001 to 0.002 Citric acid 0.0001 to 0.002 Phenoxyethanol0.0001 to 0.0007 Potassium sorbate 0.00001 to 0.0003 Sodium benzoate0.00001 to 0.0002 Silybum marianum fruit extract** 0.0003 to 0.0005Momordica grosvenorii fruit extract*** 0.0001 to 0.0005 *Formulation canbe prepared by mixing the ingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C.until homogenous. Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled tostanding room temperature (20-25° C.). Further, and if desired,additional ingredients can be added, for example, to modify therheological properties of the composition. **Obtained from Provital S.A(SPAIN) under the trade name PRONALEN SILYMARIN HSC. ***Obtained fromCarrubba Inc., Milford, Connecticut (USA).

TABLE 2* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water 83 Butylene glycol7.5 Glycerin 5 Diazolidinyl urea 0.2 Methylparaben 0.15 Disodium EDTA0.05 Simethicone 0.0025 PPG-26 0.00125 PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone 0.00125Citric acid 0.001125 Phenoxyethanol 0.000625 Potassium sorbate 0.000225Sodium benzoate 0.00005 Silybum marianum fruit extract** 0.00035Momordica grosvenorii frit extract*** 0.0001 Hydrolyzed algin**** 0.0035Linum usitatissimum seed extract***** 0.0005 *Formulation can beprepared by mixing the ingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75° C.until homogenous. Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled tostanding room temperature (20-25° C.). Further, and if desired,additional ingredients can be added, for example, to modify therheological properties of the composition. **Obtained from Provital S.A(SPAIN) under the trade name PRONALEN SILYMARIN HSC. ***Obtained fromCarrubba Inc., Milford, Connecticut (USA). ****Obtained from BarnetProducts Corp., Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey (USA) under the trade namePHYKO AL-PF. *****Obtained from Carrubba Inc., Milford, Connecticut(USA).

TABLE 3* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water 87 Butylene glycol4.6 Glycerin 4 Diazolidinyl urea 0.2 Methylparaben 0.15 Disodium EDTA0.05 Simethicone 0.0025 PPG-26 0.00125 PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone 0.00125Citric acid 0.001 Phenoxyethanol 0.00045 Potassium sorbate 0.00005Sodium benzoate 0.00005 Silybum marianum fruit extract** 0.00035Momordica grosvenorii fruit extract*** 0.0001 Plumeria alba flowerextract**** 0.01 Nymphaea gigantea flower extract***** 0.01 *Formulationcan be prepared by mixing the ingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75°C. until homogenous. Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled tostanding room temperature (20-25° C.). Further, and if desired,additional ingredients can be added, for example, to modify therheological properties of the composition. **Obtained from Provital S.A(SPAIN) under the trade name PRONALEN SILYMARIN HSC. ***Obtained fromCarrubba Inc., Milford, Connecticut (USA). ****Obtained from SouthernCross Botanicals, New South Wales (AUSTRALIA) under the trade nameABACROSS FRANGIPANI FLOWER BG. *****Obtained from Southern CrossBotanicals, New South Wales (AUSTRALIA) under the trade name ABACROSSWATER LILY BG.

TABLE 4* % Concentration Ingredient (by weight) Water 95 Butylene glycol2.5 Glycerin 1 Diazolidinyl urea 0.3 Methylparaben 0.11 Disodium EDTA0.1 Simethicone 0.0025 PPG-26 0.00125 PEG/PPG-22/23 Dimethicone 0.00125Citric acid 0.00015 Phenoxyethanol 0.00019 Potassium sorbate 0.000175Sodium benzoate 0.000175 Silybum marianum fruit extract** 0.00035Momordica grosvenorii fruit extract*** 0.0001 Kunzea ericoides leafextract**** 0.008 Psidium guajava fruit extract***** 0.0005 *Formulationcan be prepared by mixing the ingredients in a beaker under heat 70-75°C. until homogenous. Subsequently, the formulation can be cooled tostanding room temperature (20-25° C.). Further, and if desired,additional ingredients can be added, for example, to modify therheological properties of the composition. **Obtained from Provital S.A(SPAIN) under the trade name PRONALEN SILYMARIN HSC. ***Obtained fromCarrubba Inc., Milford, Connecticut (USA). ****Obtained from SouthernCross Botanicals, New South Wales (AUSTRALIA) under the trade nameABACROSS KANUKA BG. *****Obtained from Carrubba Inc., Milford,Connecticut (USA).

A formulation having the characteristics of the Table 2 formulation wasused in a regimen that also included cleanser, moisturizer, and maskproducts. The Table 2 formulation contributed to restoring the skin'snatural pH balance, while also making the skin look more radiant andhealthier. Said formulation also calmed and soothed the skin. The skinwas also perceived as feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated after topicalapplication to skin. Data was obtained from a one-week independentconsumer study.

A formulation having the characteristics of the Table 3 formulation wasused in a regimen that also included cleanser, moisturizer, and maskproducts. The Table 3 formulation contributed to improving the skin'stexture, leaving it with a soft matte finish. The skin was perceived asappearing healthier, refreshed, and ready for topically application of amoisturizer. Data was obtained from a one-week independent consumerstudy.

A formulation having the characteristics of the Table 4 formulation wasused in a regimen that also included cleanser, moisturizer, and maskproducts. The Table 4 formulation contributed in removing excess oilfrom the skin, while also cleansing and minimizing the appearance ofpores. Said formulation also was perceived as clarifying the skin. Datawas obtained from a one-week independent consumer study.

Example 2 Additional Assays

Additional assays that can be used to determine the efficacy of any oneof the compositions disclosed throughout the specification and claimscan be determined by methods known to those of ordinary skill in theart. The following are non-limiting assays that can be used in thecontext of the present invention. It should be recognized that othertesting procedures can be used, including, for example, objective andsubjective procedures.

Oil Control Assay:

An assay to measure reduction of sebum secretion from sebaceous glandsand/or reduction of sebum production from sebaceous glands can beassayed by using standard techniques known to those having ordinaryskill in the art. In one instance, the forehead can be used. Acomposition of the present invention can be applied to one portion ofthe forehead once or twice daily for a set period of days (e.g., 1, 2,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or more days), while anotherportion of the forehead is not treated with the composition. After theset period of days expires, then sebum secretion can be assayed byapplication of fine blotting paper to the treated and untreated foreheadskin. This is done by first removing any sebum from the treated anduntreated areas with moist and dry cloths. Blotting paper can then beapplied to the treated and untreated areas of the forehead, and anelastic band can be placed around the forehead to gently press theblotting paper onto the skin. After 2 hours the blotting papers can beremoved, allowed to dry and then transilluminated. Darker blotting papercorrelates with more sebum secretion (or lighter blotting papercorrelates with reduced sebum secretion.

Erythema Assay:

An assay to measure the reduction of skin redness can be evaluated usinga Minolta Chromometer. Skin erythema may be induced by applying a 0.2%solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate on the forearm of a subject. The areais protected by an occlusive patch for 24 hrs. After 24 hrs, the patchis removed and the irritation-induced redness can be assessed using thea* values of the Minolta Chroma Meter. The a* value measures changes inskin color in the red region. Immediately after reading, the area istreated with a composition of the present invention. Repeat measurementsare taken at regular intervals to determine the formula's ability toreduce redness and irritation.

Skin Moisture/Hydration Assay:

Skin moisture/hydration benefits can be measured by using impedancemeasurements with the Nova Dermal Phase Meter. The impedance metermeasures changes in skin moisture content. The outer layer of the skinhas distinct electrical properties. When skin is dry it conductselectricity very poorly. As it becomes more hydrated increasingconductivity results. Consequently, changes in skin impedance (relatedto conductivity) can be used to assess changes in skin hydration. Theunit can be calibrated according to instrument instructions for eachtesting day. A notation of temperature and relative humidity can also bemade. Subjects can be evaluated as follows: prior to measurement theycan equilibrate in a room with defined humidity (e.g., 30-50%) andtemperature (e.g., 68-72° C.). Three separate impedance readings can betaken on each side of the face, recorded, and averaged. The T5 settingcan be used on the impedance meter which averages the impedance valuesof every five seconds application to the face. Changes can be reportedwith statistical variance and significance.

Skin Clarity and Reduction in Freckles and Age Spots Assay:

Skin clarity and the reduction in freckles and age spots can beevaluated using a Minolta Chromometer. Changes in skin color can beassessed to determine irritation potential due to product treatmentusing the a* values of the Minolta Chroma Meter. The a* value measureschanges in skin color in the red region. This is used to determinewhether a composition is inducing irritation. The measurements can bemade on each side of the face and averaged, as left and right facialvalues. Skin clarity can also be measured using the Minolta Meter. Themeasurement is a combination of the a*, b, and L values of the MinoltaMeter and is related to skin brightness, and correlates well with skinsmoothness and hydration. Skin reading is taken as above. In onenon-limiting aspect, skin clarity can be described as L/C where C ischroma and is defined as (a²+b²)^(1/2).

Skin Dryness, Surface Fine Lines, Skin Smoothness, and Skin Tone Assay:

Skin dryness, surface fine lines, skin smoothness, and skin tone can beevaluated with clinical grading techniques. For example, clinicalgrading of skin dryness can be determined by a five point standardKligman Scale: (0) skin is soft and moist; (1) skin appears normal withno visible dryness; (2) skin feels slightly dry to the touch with novisible flaking; (3) skin feels dry, tough, and has a whitish appearancewith some scaling; and (4) skin feels very dry, rough, and has a whitishappearance with scaling. Evaluations can be made independently by twoclinicians and averaged.

Clinical Grading of Skin Tone Assay:

Clinical grading of skin tone can be performed via a ten point analognumerical scale: (10) even skin of uniform, pinkish brown color. Nodark, erythemic, or scaly patches upon examination with a hand heldmagnifying lens. Microtexture of the skin very uniform upon touch; (7)even skin tone observed without magnification. No scaly areas, butslight discolorations either due to pigmentation or erythema. Nodiscolorations more than 1 cm in diameter; (4) both skin discolorationand uneven texture easily noticeable. Slight scaliness. Skin rough tothe touch in some areas; and (1) uneven skin coloration and texture.Numerous areas of scaliness and discoloration, either hypopigmented,erythremic or dark spots. Large areas of uneven color more than 1 cm indiameter. Evaluations were made independently by two clinicians andaveraged.

Clinical Grading of Skin Smoothness Assay:

Clinical grading of skin smoothness can be analyzed via a ten pointanalog numerical scale: (10) smooth, skin is moist and glistening, noresistance upon dragging finger across surface; (7) somewhat smooth,slight resistance; (4) rough, visibly altered, friction upon rubbing;and (1) rough, flaky, uneven surface. Evaluations were madeindependently by two clinicians and averaged.

Skin Smoothness and Wrinkle Reduction Assay with Methods Disclosed inPackman et al. (1978):

Skin smoothness and wrinkle reduction can also be assessed visually byusing the methods disclosed in Packman et al. (1978). For example, ateach subject visit, the depth, shallowness and the total number ofsuperficial facial lines (SFLs) of each subject can be carefully scoredand recorded. A numerical score was obtained by multiplying a numberfactor times a depth/width/length factor. Scores are obtained for theeye area and mouth area (left and right sides) and added together as thetotal wrinkle score.

Skin Firmness Assay with a Hargens Ballistometer:

Skin firmness can be measured using a Hargens ballistometer, a devicethat evaluates the elasticity and firmness of the skin by dropping asmall body onto the skin and recording its first two rebound peaks. Theballistometry is a small lightweight probe with a relatively blunt tip(4 square mm-contact area) was used. The probe penetrates slightly intothe skin and results in measurements that are dependent upon theproperties of the outer layers of the skin, including the stratumcorneum and outer epidermis and some of the dermal layers.

Skin Softness/Suppleness Assay with a Gas Bearing Electrodynamometer:

Skin softness/suppleness can be evaluated using the Gas BearingElectrodynamometer, an instrument that measures the stress/strainproperties of the skin. The viscoelastic properties of skin correlatewith skin moisturization. Measurements can be obtained on thepredetermined site on the cheek area by attaching the probe to the skinsurface with double-stick tape. A force of approximately 3.5 gm can beapplied parallel to the skin surface and the skin displacement isaccurately measured. Skin suppleness can then be calculated and isexpressed as DSR (Dynamic Spring Rate in gm/mm).

Appearance of Lines and Wrinkles Assay with Replicas:

The appearance of lines and wrinkles on the skin can be evaluated usingreplicas, which is the impression of the skin's surface. Silicone rubberlike material can be used. The replica can be analyzed by imageanalysis. Changes in the visibility of lines and wrinkles can beobjectively quantified via the taking of silicon replicas form thesubjects' face and analyzing the replicas image using a computer imageanalysis system. Replicas can be taken from the eye area and the neckarea, and photographed with a digital camera using a low angle incidencelighting. The digital images can be analyzed with an image processingprogram and are of the replicas covered by wrinkles or fine lines wasdetermined.

Surface Contour of the Skin Assay with a Profilometer/Stylus Method:

The surface contour of the skin can be measured by using theprofilometer/Stylus method. This includes either shining a light ordragging a stylus across the replica surface. The vertical displacementof the stylus can be fed into a computer via a distance transducer, andafter scanning a fixed length of replica a cross-sectional analysis ofskin profile can be generated as a two-dimensional curve. This scan canbe repeated any number of times along a fix axis to generate a simulated3-D picture of the skin. Ten random sections of the replicas using thestylus technique can be obtained and combined to generate averagevalues. The values of interest include Ra which is the arithmetic meanof all roughness (height) values computed by integrating the profileheight relative to the mean profile height. Rt which is the maximumvertical distance between the highest peak and lowest trough, and Rzwhich is the mean peak amplitude minus the mean peak height. Values aregiven as a calibrated value in mm. Equipment should be standardizedprior to each use by scanning metal standards of know values. Ra Valuecan be computed by the following equation: R_(a)=Standardize roughness;l_(m)=the traverse (scan) length; and y=the absolute value of thelocation of the profile relative to the mean profile height (x-axis).

MELANODERM™ Assay:

In other non-limiting aspects, the efficacy of the compositions of thepresent invention can be evaluated by using a skin analog, such as, forexample, MELANODERM™. Melanocytes, one of the cells in the skin analog,stain positively when exposed to L-dihydroxyphenyl alanine (L-DOPA), aprecursor of melanin. The skin analog, MELANODERM™, can be treated witha variety of bases containing the compositions and whitening agents ofthe present invention or with the base alone as a control.Alternatively, an untreated sample of the skin analog can be used as acontrol.

All of the skin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods disclosedand claimed in this specification can be made and executed without undueexperimentation in light of the present disclosure. While theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods of this invention havebeen described in terms of particular embodiments, it will be apparentto those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods and in the steps or inthe sequence of steps of the method described herein without departingfrom the concept, spirit and scope of the invention.

1. A method of applying a topical skin composition to skin, the methodcomprising applying the composition to skin, the composition comprising:(a) Silybum marianum fruit extract; and (b) Momordica grosvenorii fruitextract.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition furthercomprises: 0.0001 to 5% by weight of Silybum marianum fruit extract; and0.0001 to 5% by weight of Momordica grosvenorii fruit extract.
 3. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises: hydrolyzedalgin; and Linum usitatissimum seed extract.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein the composition further comprises: Plumeria alba flower extract;and Nymphaea gigantea flower extract.
 5. The method of claim 1, whereinthe composition further comprises: Kunzea ericoides leaf extract; andPsidium guajava fruit extract.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition further comprises water.
 7. The method of claim 1, whereinthe composition comprises at least 80% by weight of water.
 8. The methodof claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises kaolin.